Journal Description
Biology
Biology
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of biological sciences published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society for Nitrogen Fixation (SEFIN) and Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations (FELASA) are affiliated with Biology, and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Biology) / CiteScore - Q1 (General Agricultural and Biological Sciences)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.2 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Padina Minor Extract Confers Resistance against Candida Albicans Infection: Evaluation in a Zebrafish Model
Biology 2024, 13(6), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060384 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Padina minor is a seaweed rich in polysaccharides often used in food, feed, fertilizers, and antibacterial drugs. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of feeding zebrafish with Padina minor extract on preventing and treating C. albicans infections. This study evaluated
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Padina minor is a seaweed rich in polysaccharides often used in food, feed, fertilizers, and antibacterial drugs. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of feeding zebrafish with Padina minor extract on preventing and treating C. albicans infections. This study evaluated the growth, survival, and disease resistance effects of P. minor extract on zebrafish. The fish were divided into four groups: three groups treated with 1%, 5%, or 10% P. minor extract and one untreated group (c, control). Subsequently, we analyzed how the extract affected the immune function of zebrafish infected with C. albicans. Based on the lethal concentration (LC50) calculated in the first stage, 1% was used as the effective therapeutic concentration. The results showed that the growth rate of the 1% feed group was the best, and no significant difference in survival rates between the four groups was observed. Feeding with 1% P. minor extract downregulated the expression of key inflammatory genes like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-10, effectively preventing and treating C. albicans infections in zebrafish. This study is a preliminary evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of P. minor extracts against C. albicans.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Parasitic and Microbial Infection and Immunity)
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Fire-Induced Changes in Soil Properties and Bacterial Communities in Rotational Shifting Cultivation Fields in Northern Thailand
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Noppol Arunrat, Chakriya Sansupa, Sukanya Sereenonchai, Ryusuke Hatano and Rattan Lal
Biology 2024, 13(6), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060383 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Fire is a common practice in rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), but little is known about the dynamics of bacterial populations and the impact of fire disturbance in northern Thailand. To fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the dynamics of soil
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Fire is a common practice in rotational shifting cultivation (RSC), but little is known about the dynamics of bacterial populations and the impact of fire disturbance in northern Thailand. To fill the research gap, this study aims to investigate the dynamics of soil bacterial communities and examine how the soil’s physicochemical properties influence the bacterial communities in RSC fields over a period of one year following a fire. Surface soil samples (0–2 cm depth) were collected from sites with 6 (RSC-6Y) and 12 (RSC-12Y) years of fallow in Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand at six different time points: before burning, 5 min after burning (summer), 3 months after burning (rainy season), 6 months after burning (rainy season), 9 months after burning (winter), and 12 months after burning (summer). The results revealed a reduction in the soil bacterial communities’ diversity and an increase in soil nutrient levels immediately after the fire. The fire significantly influenced the abundance of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Planctomycetes, but not that of Actinobacteria. At the genus level, Bacillus, Conexibacter, and Chthoniobacter showed increased abundance following the fire. During the rainy season, a recovery in the abundance of the soil bacterial communities was observed, although soil nutrient availability declined. Soil physicochemical properties such as pH, organic matter, organic carbon, electrical conductivity, cation exchange capacity, nitrate-nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, total nitrogen, bulk density, sand, and silt contents significantly influenced the composition of bacterial communities. Alpha diversity indices indicated a decrease in diversity immediately after burning, followed by an increase from the early rainy season until the summer season, indicating that seasonal variation affected the composition of the soil bacterial communities. After one year of burning, an increase in bacterial richness was observed, while the diversity of the bacterial communities reverted to pre-burning levels.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biogeochemical Element Cycling in Plant–Soil Systems: Implications for Ecosystem Dynamics and Services)
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Open AccessArticle
Modulator Effect of AT1 Receptor Knockdown on THP-1 Macrophage Proinflammatory Activity
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Lourdes Nallely Acevedo-Villavicencio, Carlos Enrique López-Luna, Juan Castillo-Cruz, Rocío Alejandra Gutiérrez-Rojas, Iris Selene Paredes-González, Santiago Villafaña, Fengyang Huang, Cruz Vargas-De-León, Rodrigo Romero-Nava and Karla Aidee Aguayo-Cerón
Biology 2024, 13(6), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060382 - 26 May 2024
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Currently, it is known that angiotensin II (AngII) induces inflammation, and an AT1R blockade has anti-inflammatory effects. The use of an AT1 receptor antagonist promotes the inhibition of the secretion of multiple proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages, as well as a
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Currently, it is known that angiotensin II (AngII) induces inflammation, and an AT1R blockade has anti-inflammatory effects. The use of an AT1 receptor antagonist promotes the inhibition of the secretion of multiple proinflammatory cytokines in macrophages, as well as a decrease in the concentration of reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of AT1 receptor gene silencing on the modulation of cytokines (e.g., IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) in THP-1 macrophages and the relation to the gene expression of NF-κB. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the gene expression of PPAR-γ in THP-1 macrophages using PMA (60 ng/mL). For the silencing, cells were incubated with the siRNA for 72 h and telmisartan (10 µM) was added to the medium for 24 h. After that, cells were incubated during 1 and 24 h, respectively, with Ang II (1 µM). The gene expression levels of AT1R, NF-κB, and cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-10) were measured by RT-qPCR. Results: We observed that silencing of the AT1 receptor causes a decrease in the expression of mRNA of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α), NF-κB, and PPAR-γ. Conclusions: We conclude that AT1R gene silencing is an alternative to modulating the production of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β via NF-κB in macrophages and having high blood pressure decrease.
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Open AccessArticle
The Structure of Digestive Tract Coordinating Digestion and Respiration in an Air-Breathing Weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus
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Zixin Qi, Hongbo Ma, Li Ma and Xuefen Yang
Biology 2024, 13(6), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060381 - 25 May 2024
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To clarify how the digestive tract of the weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, serves a dual function of digestion and respiration simultaneously, the histological structures of its digestive tract, the passage of digesta and air passing through its intestine and the rate of intestinal
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To clarify how the digestive tract of the weatherloach, Misgurnus anguillicaudatus, serves a dual function of digestion and respiration simultaneously, the histological structures of its digestive tract, the passage of digesta and air passing through its intestine and the rate of intestinal evacuation have been studied. The results indicate that the digestive tract is divided into five functional regions, i.e., esophagus, anterior intestine, middle intestine, posterior intestine and rectum. The diverse intestinal structures have the specialized function of coordinating digestion and respiration. An X-ray barium meal examination showed in the normal breathing state, the contents of the intestine are diffusely semifluid, and air is distributed as bubbles in the dorsal intestine 2 h after feeding. After 5 h, the contents accumulated in the mid and posterior intestine, and gas flowed above the contents as bundles. After 8 h, the intestinal food was basically evacuated. In the intestinal air-breathing restricted group, the contents of the intestine remained diffuse, and a large number of digesta entered and remained in the rectum after 5 h. After the inhibition was relieved, the contents of the rectum were rapidly discharged. Measurement of the intestinal evacuation rate in the intestine showed that the evacuation of the intestinal contents lagged behind that of the normal group in the air-breathing restricted group. Compared to the normal state and inhibited GAB (gastrointestinal air breathing), we could deduce that GAB could promote the movement of the intestine.
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Open AccessArticle
Genomic Analysis of Brassinosteroid Biosynthesis Gene Family Reveals Its Roles in Cotton Development across Gossypium Species
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Shiyan Cui, Xin Zhou, Guanghui Xiao and Hongjie Feng
Biology 2024, 13(6), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060380 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Cotton is a globally significant economic crop. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are crucial to cotton development. This study systematically analyzed the BR synthase gene family in four cotton species and identified 60 BR genes: 20 in Gossypium hirsutum (GhBRs), 20 in G. barbadense
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Cotton is a globally significant economic crop. Brassinosteroids (BRs) are crucial to cotton development. This study systematically analyzed the BR synthase gene family in four cotton species and identified 60 BR genes: 20 in Gossypium hirsutum (GhBRs), 20 in G. barbadense (GbBRs), 10 in G. arboreum (GaBRs), and 10 in G. raimondii (GrBRs). The analysis was extended to chromosomal localization, evolutionary relationships, domain features, and cis-regulatory elements in the promoter regions of BR synthase genes. The results showed that the BR synthase genes were evenly distributed across different subgenomes and chromosomes. Bioinformatics analyses revealed high conservation of amino acid sequences, secondary structures, and conserved domains among the subfamily members, which is closely linked to their pivotal roles in the BR biosynthesis pathway. Cis-element distribution analysis of the BR synthase genes further underscored the complexity of BR gene expression regulation, which is influenced by multiple factors, including plant hormones, abiotic stress, and transcription factors. Expression profiling of GhBRs genes in various cotton tissues and developmental stages highlighted the key roles of GhROT3-1 and GhDET2-1 in fiber elongation and initiation, respectively. Protein–protein interactions and transcription factor analyses further elucidated the regulatory mechanisms of GhROT3-1 and GhDET2-1 in cotton growth and development. This study lays a theoretical foundation for understanding the role of the BR signaling pathway in cotton development, facilitating molecular breeding.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)
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Open AccessReview
Disrupted Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+ Handling: A Harβinger of β-Cell Failure
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Jordyn R. Dobson and David A. Jacobson
Biology 2024, 13(6), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060379 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The β-cell workload increases in the setting of insulin resistance and reduced β-cell mass, which occurs in type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. The prolonged elevation of insulin production and secretion during the pathogenesis of diabetes results in β-cell ER stress. The
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The β-cell workload increases in the setting of insulin resistance and reduced β-cell mass, which occurs in type 2 and type 1 diabetes, respectively. The prolonged elevation of insulin production and secretion during the pathogenesis of diabetes results in β-cell ER stress. The depletion of β-cell Ca2+ER during ER stress activates the unfolded protein response, leading to β-cell dysfunction. Ca2+ER is involved in many pathways that are critical to β-cell function, such as protein processing, tuning organelle and cytosolic Ca2+ handling, and modulating lipid homeostasis. Mutations that promote β-cell ER stress and deplete Ca2+ER stores are associated with or cause diabetes (e.g., mutations in ryanodine receptors and insulin). Thus, improving β-cell Ca2+ER handling and reducing ER stress under diabetogenic conditions could preserve β-cell function and delay or prevent the onset of diabetes. This review focuses on how mechanisms that control β-cell Ca2+ER are perturbed during the pathogenesis of diabetes and contribute to β-cell failure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue β-Cells at the Center of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes)
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Modulation of Glucose Consumption and Uptake in HepG2 Cells by Aqueous Extracts from the Coelomic Fluid of the Edible Holothuria tubulosa Sea Cucumber
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Giulia Abruscato, Roberta Tarantino, Manuela Mauro, Roberto Chiarelli, Aiti Vizzini, Vincenzo Arizza, Mirella Vazzana and Claudio Luparello
Biology 2024, 13(6), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060378 - 25 May 2024
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The cell-free aqueous extract from the coelomic fluid of Holothuria tubulosa was prepared and examined for its glucose-lowering effect on HepG2 cells in vitro. In particular, employing a combination of cytochemical, flow cytometric, PCR, and protein blot techniques, we evaluated its role on
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The cell-free aqueous extract from the coelomic fluid of Holothuria tubulosa was prepared and examined for its glucose-lowering effect on HepG2 cells in vitro. In particular, employing a combination of cytochemical, flow cytometric, PCR, and protein blot techniques, we evaluated its role on glucose internalization and storage and on the upregulation and surface translocation of the two glucose transporters GLUT-2 and -4. The changes in expression, synthesis, and/or activation of the GLUT2-related transcription factor hepatocyte nuclear factor-1 alpha (HNF1α) and the GLUT-4-translocation regulatory factors insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and AKT were also studied. Our results showed the improved glucose response by HepG2 cells, leading to an evident increase in glucose consumption/uptake and glycogen storage upon exposure. Moreover, the extract induced molecular reprogramming involving the upregulation of (i) IRS1 gene expression, (ii) the transcription and translation levels of HNF1α, AKT, and GLUT-4, (iii) the phosphorylation level of AKT, (iv) the synthesis of GLUT-2 protein, and (v) the translocation of GLUT-2 and -4 transporters onto the plasma membrane. Cumulatively, our results suggest that the coelomic fluid extract from H. tubulosa can be taken into consideration for the development of novel treatment agents against diabetes mellitus.
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Open AccessBrief Report
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Expression of Cation-Chloride Cotransporter (CCC) Genes in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) across the Menstrual Cycle—A Preliminary Study
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Soojeong Cho, Fatimata Soumare, Sunni L. Mumford, Paola C. Rosas, Zarema Abrieva, John M. Davis and Ajna Hamidovic
Biology 2024, 13(6), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060377 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation–chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression
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Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by debilitating affective symptomatology in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Based on the previous reports that PMDD may be related to GABAergic cellular dysfunction(s), we assessed whether cation–chloride cotransporter (CCC) gene expression across the menstrual cycle is altered in PMDD. As there are limitations in accessing the human CNS to study CCC-encoding genes, we utilized peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) as an alternative model. We first sought to replicate previous reports characterizing CCC gene expression patterns in PBMCs of reproductive age women. We subsequently investigated potential distinct CCC mRNA expression patterns in women with PMDD. We collected blood samples across 8 menstrual cycle visits for PBMC separation/RNA extraction to study mRNA expression of four KCCs (KCC1, KCC2, KCC3, KCC4) and two NKCCs (NKCC1, NKCC2) cotransporters. We mostly replicated the earlier gene expression pattern findings, and found that the expression levels of KCC1 were significantly downregulated during the mid-follicular and periovulatory subphases of the menstrual cycle in women with PMDD. The present study shows that PBMCs is a valid model for studying GABAergic mechanisms underlying PMDD.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medical Biology)
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Influence of Bilberry Extract on Neuronal Cell Toxicity
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Svenja König, Tamara Bakuradze, Sandy Jesser, Harshitha Ashoka Sreeja, Max J. Carlsson, Jörg Fahrer, Stefan Kins and Elke Richling
Biology 2024, 13(6), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060376 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Increased intake of dietary antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which are enriched in colourful fruits, is a promising alternative to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Since Amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key components contributing to AD
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Increased intake of dietary antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which are enriched in colourful fruits, is a promising alternative to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Since Amyloid β (Aβ) is one of the key components contributing to AD pathology, probably by reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction, this study investigated the preventive effect of anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract (BE) and its anthocyanin fraction (ACN) on ROS generation and cell toxicity. The results showed a significant and concentration-dependent decrease in neuroblastoma cell (SH-SY5Y) viability by BE or ACN, whereas no cell toxicity was observed in HeLa cells. Incubation with BE and ACN for 24 h diminished the generation of induced ROS levels in SH-SY5Y and HeLa cells. In addition, low concentrations of BE (1–5 µg/mL) showed protective effects against Aβ-induced cytotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells. In conclusion, our results suggest antioxidant and protective effects of BE and ACN, which could potentially be used to delay the course of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. Further studies are needed to clarify the high potential of anthocyanins and their in vivo metabolites on neuronal function.
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(This article belongs to the Section Neuroscience)
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Open AccessReview
Basement Membranes, Brittlestar Tendons, and Their Mechanical Adaptability
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Iain C. Wilkie
Biology 2024, 13(6), 375; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060375 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Basement membranes (BMs) are thin layers of extracellular matrix that separate epithelia, endothelia, muscle cells, and nerve cells from adjacent interstitial connective tissue. BMs are ubiquitous in almost all multicellular animals, and their composition is highly conserved across the Metazoa. There is increasing
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Basement membranes (BMs) are thin layers of extracellular matrix that separate epithelia, endothelia, muscle cells, and nerve cells from adjacent interstitial connective tissue. BMs are ubiquitous in almost all multicellular animals, and their composition is highly conserved across the Metazoa. There is increasing interest in the mechanical functioning of BMs, including the involvement of altered BM stiffness in development and pathology, particularly cancer metastasis, which can be facilitated by BM destabilization. Such BM weakening has been assumed to occur primarily through enzymatic degradation by matrix metalloproteinases. However, emerging evidence indicates that non-enzymatic mechanisms may also contribute. In brittlestars (Echinodermata, Ophiuroidea), the tendons linking the musculature to the endoskeleton consist of extensions of muscle cell BMs. During the process of brittlestar autotomy, in which arms are detached for the purpose of self-defense, muscles break away from the endoskeleton as a consequence of the rapid destabilization and rupture of their BM-derived tendons. This contribution provides a broad overview of current knowledge of the structural organization and biomechanics of non-echinoderm BMs, compares this with the equivalent information on brittlestar tendons, and discusses the possible relationship between the weakening phenomena exhibited by BMs and brittlestar tendons, and the potential translational value of the latter as a model system of BM destabilization.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Advances in Echinoderm Research)
Open AccessReview
Communications between Neutrophil–Endothelial Interaction in Immune Defense against Bacterial Infection
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Zhigang Sun, Ruoyi Lv, Yanxin Zhao, Ziwen Cai, Xiaohui Si, Qian Zhang and Xiaoye Liu
Biology 2024, 13(6), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060374 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The endothelial barrier plays a critical role in immune defense against bacterial infection. Efficient interactions between neutrophils and endothelial cells facilitate the activation of both cell types. However, neutrophil activation can have dual effects, promoting bacterial clearance on one hand while triggering inflammation
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The endothelial barrier plays a critical role in immune defense against bacterial infection. Efficient interactions between neutrophils and endothelial cells facilitate the activation of both cell types. However, neutrophil activation can have dual effects, promoting bacterial clearance on one hand while triggering inflammation on the other. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the cellular defense progression when neutrophils encounter bacteria, focusing specifically on neutrophil–endothelial interactions and endothelial activation or dysfunction. By elucidating the underlying mechanisms of inflammatory pathways, potential therapeutic targets for inflammation caused by endothelial dysfunction may be identified. Overall, our comprehensive understanding of neutrophil–endothelial interactions in modulating innate immunity provides deeper insights into therapeutic strategies for infectious diseases and further promotes the development of antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Infection Biology)
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Open AccessArticle
HemN2 Regulates the Virulence of Pseudomonas donghuensis HYS through 7-Hydroxytropolone Synthesis and Oxidative Stress
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Yaqian Xiao, Wang Xiang, Xuerui Ma, Donghao Gao, Hasan Bayram, George H. Lorimer, Reza A. Ghiladi, Zhixiong Xie and Jun Wang
Biology 2024, 13(6), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060373 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Compared to pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and P. putida, P. donghuensis HYS has stronger virulence towards Caenorhabditis elegans. However, the underlying mechanisms haven’t been fully understood. The heme synthesis system is essential for Pseudomonas virulence, and former studies of HemN have focused
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Compared to pathogens Pseudomonas aeruginosa and P. putida, P. donghuensis HYS has stronger virulence towards Caenorhabditis elegans. However, the underlying mechanisms haven’t been fully understood. The heme synthesis system is essential for Pseudomonas virulence, and former studies of HemN have focused on the synthesis of heme, while the relationship between HemN and Pseudomonas virulence were barely pursued. In this study, we hypothesized that hemN2 deficiency affected 7-hydroxytropolone (7-HT) biosynthesis and redox levels, thereby reducing bacterial virulence. There are four hemN genes in P. donghuensis HYS, and we reported for the first time that deletion of hemN2 significantly reduced the virulence of HYS towards C. elegans, whereas the reduction in virulence by the other three genes was not significant. Interestingly, hemN2 deletion significantly reduced colonization of P. donghuensis HYS in the gut of C. elegans. Further studies showed that HemN2 was regulated by GacS and participated in the virulence of P. donghuensis HYS towards C. elegans by mediating the synthesis of the virulence factor 7-HT. In addition, HemN2 and GacS regulated the virulence of P. donghuensis HYS by affecting antioxidant capacity and nitrative stress. In short, the findings that HemN2 was regulated by the Gac system and that it was involved in bacterial virulence via regulating 7-HT synthesis and redox levels were reported for the first time. These insights may enlighten further understanding of HemN-based virulence in the genus Pseudomonas.
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(This article belongs to the Section Microbiology)
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Effects of Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) Gene Knockout on the Diversity, Composition, and Function of Gut Microbiota in Adult Zebrafish
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Yajuan Huang, Yadong Chen, Haisheng Xie, Yidong Feng, Songlin Chen and Baolong Bao
Biology 2024, 13(6), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060372 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The gut microbiota constitutes a complex ecosystem that has an important impact on host health. In this study, genetically engineered zebrafish with inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS or NOS2) knockout were used as a model to investigate the effects of nos2a/nos2b
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The gut microbiota constitutes a complex ecosystem that has an important impact on host health. In this study, genetically engineered zebrafish with inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS or NOS2) knockout were used as a model to investigate the effects of nos2a/nos2b gene single knockout and nos2 gene double knockout on intestinal microbiome composition and function. Extensive 16S rRNA sequencing revealed substantial changes in microbial diversity and specific taxonomic abundances, yet it did not affect the functional structure of the intestinal tissues. Notably, iNOS-deficient zebrafish demonstrated a decrease in Vibrio species and an increase in Aeromonas species, with more pronounced effects observed in double knockouts. Further transcriptomic analysis of the gut in double iNOS knockout zebrafish indicated significant alterations in immune-related and metabolic pathways, including the complement and PPAR signaling pathways. These findings underscore the crucial interplay between host genetics and gut microbiota, indicating that iNOS plays a key role in modulating the gut microbial ecology, host immune system, and metabolic responses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gut Microbiome in Health and Disease (2nd Edition))
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Temporal Processing on Speech-in-Noise Perception in Middle-Aged Adults
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Kailyn A. McFarlane and Jason Tait Sanchez
Biology 2024, 13(6), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060371 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Auditory temporal processing is a vital component of auditory stream segregation, or the process in which complex sounds are separated and organized into perceptually meaningful objects. Temporal processing can degrade prior to hearing loss, and is suggested to be a contributing factor to
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Auditory temporal processing is a vital component of auditory stream segregation, or the process in which complex sounds are separated and organized into perceptually meaningful objects. Temporal processing can degrade prior to hearing loss, and is suggested to be a contributing factor to difficulties with speech-in-noise perception in normal-hearing listeners. The current study tested this hypothesis in middle-aged adults—an under-investigated cohort, despite being the age group where speech-in-noise difficulties are first reported. In 76 participants, three mechanisms of temporal processing were measured: peripheral auditory nerve function using electrocochleography, subcortical encoding of periodic speech cues (i.e., fundamental frequency; F0) using the frequency following response, and binaural sensitivity to temporal fine structure (TFS) using a dichotic frequency modulation detection task. Two measures of speech-in-noise perception were administered to explore how contributions of temporal processing may be mediated by different sensory demands present in the speech perception task. This study supported the hypothesis that temporal coding deficits contribute to speech-in-noise difficulties in middle-aged listeners. Poorer speech-in-noise perception was associated with weaker subcortical F0 encoding and binaural TFS sensitivity, but in different contexts, highlighting that diverse aspects of temporal processing are differentially utilized based on speech-in-noise task characteristics.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neural Correlates of Perception in Noise in the Auditory System)
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Open AccessArticle
Vibration Emissions Reduce Boar Sperm Quality via Disrupting Its Metabolism
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Shanpeng Wang, Xuejun Zeng, Shenao Liu, S. A. Masudul Hoque, Lingjiang Min, Nengshui Ding and Zhendong Zhu
Biology 2024, 13(6), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060370 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) with liquid-preserved semen has recently become common in pig breeding. The semen doses are produced in a centralized manner at the boar stud and then subsequently distributed and transported to sow farms. However, vibration emissions during transportation by logistic vehicles
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Artificial insemination (AI) with liquid-preserved semen has recently become common in pig breeding. The semen doses are produced in a centralized manner at the boar stud and then subsequently distributed and transported to sow farms. However, vibration emissions during transportation by logistic vehicles may adversely affect the quality of boar sperm. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impact of vibration-induced emissions on sperm quality and function under simulated transportation conditions. Each time, ejaculates from all 15 boars were collected and then pooled together to minimize individual variations, and the sample was split using an extender for dilution. Different rotational speeds (0 rpm, 80 rpm, 140 rpm, 200 rpm) were utilized to simulate varying intensities of vibration exposure using an orbital shaker, considering different transportation times (0 h, 3 h, and 6 h). Subsequently, evaluations were conducted regarding sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, pH, glycolytic pathway enzyme activities, and capacitation following exposure to vibration emissions. Both vibration time and intensity impact sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, and acrosomal integrity. Vibration exposure significantly reduced sperm ATP levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the levels of mitochondria-encoded proteins (MT-ND1, MT-ND6) (p < 0.05). After vibration emission treatment, the pH value and mitochondrial ROS levels significantly increased (p < 0.05). Inhibition of sperm glycolysis was observed, with reduced activities of hexokinase (HK), pyruvate kinase (PK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), along with decreased lactate levels (p < 0.05). Additionally, sperm tyrosine phosphorylation levels were significantly reduced by vibration emissions compared to the control group (p < 0.05). After the vibration emission treatment, the number of sperm bound to each square millimeter of oviduct explants decreased significantly compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Similarly, compared to the control group, using semen subjected to vibration stress for AI results in significantly reduced pregnancy rates, total born litter size, live-born litter size, and healthy born litter size (p < 0.05).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Reproductive Biology)
Open AccessArticle
Biological Control of Tomato Bacterial Leaf Spots and Its Impact on Some Antioxidant Enzymes, Phenolic Compounds, and Pigment Content
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Asmaa H. Akila, Mohamed A. S. Ali, Ahmed M. Khairy, Ahmed S. M. Elnahal, Haifa E. Alfassam, Hassan A. Rudayni, Fatima A. Jaber and Mohamed R. A. Tohamy
Biology 2024, 13(6), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060369 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Tomato bacterial spots, caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv1) and X. euvesicatoria (Xe2), as well as bacterial specks, caused by two strains of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst1 and Pst2), represent significant threats to tomato production
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Tomato bacterial spots, caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv1) and X. euvesicatoria (Xe2), as well as bacterial specks, caused by two strains of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst1 and Pst2), represent significant threats to tomato production in the El-Sharkia governorate, often resulting in substantial yield losses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of various biocontrol culture filtrates, including bacteria and fungi agents, in managing the occurrence and severity of these diseases, while also monitoring physiological changes in tomato leaves, including antioxidant enzymes, phenolics, and pigment content. The culture filtrates from examined Trichoderma species (T. viride, T. harzianum, and T. album), as well as the tested bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Serratia marcescens) at concentrations of 25%, 50%, and 100%, significantly inhibited the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria In vitro. For the In vivo experiments, we used specific doses of 5 mL of spore suspension per plant for the fungal bioagents at a concentration of 2.5 × 107 spores/mL. The bacterial bioagents were applied as a 10 mL suspension per plant at a concentration of 1 × 108 CFU/mL. Spraying the culture filtrates of the tested bioagents two days before infection In vivo significantly reduced disease incidence and severity. Trichoderma viride exhibited the highest efficacy among the fungal bioagents, followed by T. harzianum and T. album. Meanwhile, the culture filtrate of B. subtilis emerged as the most potent among the bacterial bioagents, followed by P. fluorescens. Furthermore, applying these culture filtrates resulted in elevated levels of chitinase, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase activity. This effect extended to increased phenol contents, as well as chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids in sprayed tomato plants compared to the control treatment. Overall, these findings underscore the potential of these biocontrol strategies to effectively mitigate disease incidence and severity while enhancing plant defense mechanisms and physiological parameters, thus offering promising avenues for sustainable disease management in tomato production.
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Open AccessArticle
Resveratrol and (-)-Epigallocatechin-3-gallate Regulate Lipid Metabolism by Activating the AMPK Pathway in Hepatocytes
by
Huanbin Wang, Yu An, Shahid Ali Rajput and Desheng Qi
Biology 2024, 13(6), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060368 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of Res and EGCG on cell growth, cellular antioxidant levels, and cellular lipid metabolism in hepatocytes. In this experiment, leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells were used as hepatocytes. The results showed that 6.25–25
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The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of Res and EGCG on cell growth, cellular antioxidant levels, and cellular lipid metabolism in hepatocytes. In this experiment, leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells were used as hepatocytes. The results showed that 6.25–25 μM Res and EGCG had no adverse effects on cell viability and growth. Meanwhile, with the increasing dosage of Res and EGCG, the contents of total cholesterol (TC), total glyceride (TG), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in hepatocytes decreased significantly (p < 0.05), while the contents of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and catalase (CAT) increased significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, western blot results showed that Res and EGCG could significantly increase the expression of p-AMPK protein and reduce the expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGCR) protein in hepatocytes (p < 0.05). Moreover, q-PCR results showed that with the increase in Res and EGCG, the expression of cholesterol- and fatty acid synthesis-related genes decreased significantly (p < 0.05). In conclusion, Res and EGCG can increase the antioxidant capacity of hepatocytes and reduce the synthesis of TC and TG in hepatocytes by activating AMPK, thereby regulating lipid metabolism in hepatocytes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioavailability, Metabolism, and Health Effects of Phenolic Compounds)
Open AccessArticle
Genetically Engineered Goats as Efficient Mammary Gland Bioreactors for Production of Recombinant Human Neutrophil Peptide 1 Using CRISPR/Cas9
by
Dongxu Li, Rihong Guo, Fang Chen, Jingang Wang, Feng Wang and Yongjie Wan
Biology 2024, 13(6), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060367 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Mammary gland bioreactors are promising methods for recombinant protein production. Human neutrophil peptide 1 (HNP1) exhibits antibacterial and immune-modulating properties. This study aims to establish a method to generate goats secreting HNP1 using the mammary gland as bioreactors. HNP1 transgenic goats were generated
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Mammary gland bioreactors are promising methods for recombinant protein production. Human neutrophil peptide 1 (HNP1) exhibits antibacterial and immune-modulating properties. This study aims to establish a method to generate goats secreting HNP1 using the mammary gland as bioreactors. HNP1 transgenic goats were generated by using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to knock-in (KI) the HNP1 sequence into exon 7 of the goat β-casein (CSN2) gene under the control of the CSN2 promoter. One-cell stage embryos were cytoplasmically injected with a mixture of Cas9 mRNA, sgRNA, and a homologous plasmid including the T2A-HNP1 sequences, followed by transfer to recipient goats. A total of 22 live offspring goats were delivered, and 21 of these goats (95.45%) exhibited targeted edits at the CSN2 locus, and 2 female goats (9.09%) demonstrated successful HNP1 integration. Western blot and ELISA analyses confirmed the presence of HNP1 protein at high levels in the milk of these HNP1-positive goats, with mean concentrations of 22.10 µg/mL and 0.0092 µg/mL during the initial 60 days of lactation. Furthermore, milk from these transgenic goats exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, demonstrating the functionality of the expressed HNP1 protein. In conclusion, we established an efficient method for developing new transgenic goat lines as a mammary gland bioreactor, and the bioactive HNP1 protein secreted by the transgenic goat has the potential to combat microbial resistance.
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(This article belongs to the Section Zoology)
Open AccessArticle
A Full-Length Transcriptome and Analysis of the NHL-1 Gene Family in Neocaridina denticulata sinensis
by
Kefan Xing, Huimin Li, Xiongfei Wang, Yuying Sun and Jiquan Zhang
Biology 2024, 13(6), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060366 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Neocaridina denticulata sinensis has emerged as a promising model organism for basic studies in Decapod. However, the current transcriptome information on this species is based on next-generation sequencing technologies, which are limited by a short read length. Therefore, the present study aimed to
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Neocaridina denticulata sinensis has emerged as a promising model organism for basic studies in Decapod. However, the current transcriptome information on this species is based on next-generation sequencing technologies, which are limited by a short read length. Therefore, the present study aimed to generate a full-length transcriptome assembly of N. denticulata sinensis utilizing the PacBio Sequel Ⅱ platform. The resulting transcriptome assembly comprised 5831 transcripts with an N50 value of 3697 bp. Remarkably, 90.5% of these transcripts represented novel isoforms of known genes. The transcripts were further searched against the NR, SwissProt, KEGG, KOG, GO, NT, and Pfam databases. A total of 24.8% of the transcripts can be annotated across all seven databases. Additionally, 1236 alternative splicing events, 344 transcription factors, and 124 long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) were predicted. Based on the alternative splicing annotation results, a RING finger protein NHL-1 gene from N. denticulata sinensis (NdNHL-1) was identified. There are 15 transcripts in NdNHL-1. The longest transcript is 4995 bp in length and encodes a putative protein of 1665 amino acids. A phylogenetic analysis showed its close relationship with NHL-1 from other crustacean species. This report represents the full-length transcriptome of N. denticulata sinensis and will facilitate research on functional genomics and environmental adaptation in this species.
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(This article belongs to the Section Bioinformatics)
Open AccessArticle
Phylogenetic Analysis of Rare and Endangered Tulipa Species (Liliaceae) of Kazakhstan Based on Universal Barcoding Markers
by
Maxim Sutula, Ayan Kakanay, Dilnur Tussipkan, Samatulla Dzhumanov and Shuga Manabayeva
Biology 2024, 13(6), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13060365 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
In Kazakhstan, the genus Tulipa is represented by 35 species, 18 of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan and protected by the state. Recent studies of tulip specimens from regions bordering Kazakhstan emphasize the significance of species inventory and
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In Kazakhstan, the genus Tulipa is represented by 35 species, 18 of which are listed in the Red Data Book of Kazakhstan and protected by the state. Recent studies of tulip specimens from regions bordering Kazakhstan emphasize the significance of species inventory and report the discovery of several hybrids. In this study, eight tulip species were identified based on morphological characteristics and using DNA barcoding methods. Molecular genetic markers, including nrDNA (ITS) and cpDNA markers (rbcL, matK), of the studied species were sequenced and analyzed using the Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis methods. Our work demonstrates that DNA barcodes based on the ITS, rbcL, and matK marker regions have successful practical applicability, with ITS being the most informative at the intragenic level. However, for distinguishing closely related taxa, the most effective approach would be to use a combined dataset of sequences from multiple DNA markers. The results showed discrepancies in the placement of several taxa (T. kaufmanniana, T. patens), likely due to introgression and natural spontaneous hybridization. The molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests the existence of a previously undescribed hybrid between T. patens and T. alberti. Further detailed population studies are needed to validate this hypothesis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in 'Conservation Biology and Biodiversity')
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